Many students think study just involves re-reading the textbook or class notes. A better approach than just rehearsal is to:

• Make 2 columns, one with original text, the other with your comments and questions.
• Add detail to the information to be remembered. Draw pictures or diagrams, read around the topic.
• Re-organise the information. Draw mindmaps, re-write notes in textas, use mnemonics (memory tricks)
• Actively think about the material. Ask yourself questions. Does it make sense? Do I agree? Can I think of a better way?
• Make it meaningful. How does/How can/How might what I learn apply to me, my parents and my neighbours?
• Relate it to other things you already know or have experienced. How does this fit in with what I already know?

Some model notes doc for Tolkien biography and blank Word document notetaking sheet

Rosemary Horton Teacher Librarian